"When I look at the alternatives and the amount of risk I have to take to get even a 10% return right now, I am comfortable biding my time, continuing to buy gold and gold share bargains with the expectation that the 100%, 200%, 500% gains down the road will catch me up in a hurry."

Thats some decent advice right here. Surely some folk might have been caught up in the junior bear and sell their shares. Some persons who cannot afford to play have pitched their shares at discount prices. The right thing to do is take the long view, and realize where your particular company will be in 2-5 years. Although there's more risk in the juniors, stick to the quality and well financed companies and you will do ok.